Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust

Name: Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-04T22:17:50.991Z

This Creamy Potato Gratin is not just a dish; it's a labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Each layer of thinly sliced potatoes is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a golden cheese crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that is utterly satisfying
Golden cheese crust adds a delightful crunch
Perfect side dish for any occasion

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a festive gathering, this dish is guaranteed to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and gooey cheese makes for a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to prepare.

This gratin is not only delicious but also versatile. You can pair it with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire. Its creamy texture and cheesy crust are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to choice for family dinners.

Ingredients That Shine

The beauty of this Creamy Potato Gratin lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Using fresh potatoes ensures that the base has a delightful texture, while heavy cream provides the richness that makes every bite a pleasure. Opt for Gruyère or cheddar cheese, as both melt beautifully and add a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

Additionally, the use of fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal note that balances the creaminess, while garlic infuses the gratin with an aromatic quality. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying, proving that sometimes less is more in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This potato gratin is remarkably adaptable, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a side dish for holiday meals, barbecue gatherings, or cozy family dinners. Its rich flavor complements a wide range of main courses, from succulent roasted chicken to hearty vegetarian options.

Moreover, you can prepare the gratin ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining. Simply assemble the dish in advance and pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve, making it an excellent choice for busy hosts who still want to impress their guests.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

For Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Make sure to layer the potatoes evenly for even cooking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Potatoes

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cream mixture over them, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.

Repeat Layers

Add the remaining potatoes, pour the rest of the cream mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.

Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the gratin.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Serve hot as a side dish or a main course!

Tips for the Best Gratin

For the best results, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they hold their shape well while becoming creamy during baking. Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the cream mixture, creating a delightful harmony of taste and texture.

Consider experimenting with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile of your gratin. Mixing cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness or blue cheese for a sharp kick can add unique twists that keep this dish exciting every time you make it.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover it with foil to prevent the top from burning and heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This ensures that the creamy texture and cheesy crust remain intact.

For longer storage, you can freeze the gratin before baking. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake it from frozen, adding a little extra time to the cooking process for a delicious, homemade meal any day of the week.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the creamy potato gratin, consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will contrast beautifully with the richness of the gratin, making for a balanced meal.

Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this dish. The acidity in the wine will enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creaminess of the gratin.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it fresh before serving.

→ What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture and flavor.

→ Can I use low-fat cream?

While you can use low-fat cream, the gratin may not be as rich and creamy.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables to the gratin?

Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.